The Star Voyager docks at the Xiamen International Cruise Center. [Photo/Xiamen Daily]

The cruise ship Star Voyager operated by Star Cruises arrived for the first time at the Xiamen International Cruise Center on Sept 20, marking the launch of a new weekend cruise route "Hong Kong-Xiamen-Hong Kong", featuring a three-day, two-night itinerary.

The route is also the first cruise transportation route to be established between Fujian province, Hong Kong, and Macao in nearly five years.

Passengers experience the convenient visa processing service. [Photo/Xiamen Daily]

On the same day, Fujian's first immigration service station located within an international cruise ship terminal was inaugurated. Situated at the entrance of the departure hall, the station addresses the practical issue of some mainland tourists holding only a single-entry Hong Kong travel permit, which is insufficient for the complete cruise itinerary.

It provides on-the-spot services such as permit processing, travel consultations and emergency assistance, offering "immediate access upon docking and one-stop resolution" for all immigration-related needs.

The initiative significantly alleviates the travel pressures caused by tight port schedules and substantially enhances the overall passenger experience.

As planned, from today onward, the Star Voyager will carry out a series of weekend sailings on the three-day, two-night "Hong Kong–Xiamen–Hong Kong" route. There's also the intention to work with the Xiamen International Cruise Center to develop a number of special cruise routes.